North Carolina feels winter press harder this morning as cold air settles low and still across the Triangle. The quiet start hides a fast-changing pattern. Strong northwest winds and sharply colder air move into central North Carolina, setting up a high-impact winter weekend for Raleigh and nearby communities.
By later today into Saturday, winds increase steadily. Gusts climb above 40 mph, especially across open areas and elevated roadways. The National Weather Service warns that these winds combine with falling temperatures to create a dangerous cold snap Saturday night into Sunday morning. Wind chill readings drop into the single digits to low teens, even though actual temperatures hover near the 20s.
Light showers may develop late today, with a small chance of brief rain or sprinkles around the Triangle. Snow accumulation remains unlikely, but colder air rushing in behind the system changes the feel fast. Any moisture on roads dries or freezes quickly after sunset. This raises flash-freezing concerns, particularly on bridges, ramps, and untreated roads along I-40, I-440, U.S. 1, and U.S. 70.
Saturday turns sunny but brisk. Winds stay gusty through the afternoon, making outdoor plans uncomfortable. By Saturday night, conditions turn sharply colder. Sunday morning starts clear but frigid before sunshine slowly helps temperatures recover. Highs climb back into the mid to upper 30s Sunday afternoon.
The cold does not linger long. A noticeable warm-up begins early next week. Monday jumps into the 50s, followed by even warmer afternoons by midweek. Meteorologists now see above-normal temperatures building across much of the Southeast, offering a break from February’s cold grip.
Dress in layers, secure loose outdoor items, and slow down if driving at night. Heading out this weekend? How strong did the wind feel where you live?
Five Day Outlook
- Saturday: Sunny, windy, cold. High 34°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, cold early. High 37°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, warmer. High 51°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, springlike. High 61°F.
- Wednesday: Chance rain. High 68°F.
